72% of HM patients and 66% of ST patients were anemic at some time during the survey period. Chemotherapy caused greater incidence of anemia than radiotherapy: 56 vs. 20% for HM and 64 vs 19% for ST.

Only 49% of HM patients and 37% of ST patients who were anemic at some time during the survey received treatment for their anemia.

The mean hgb level at which patients were treated with epoetin was 9.4 for HM and 10.1 for ST. Transfusions were given at a mean hgb level of 8.3 for HM and 9.0 for ST.

Author's Conclusions

Recognition and treatment of anemia should be an essential component of the overall cancer care of cancer patients.

Clinical/Scientific Implications

There are solid data showing that correction of anemia in cancer patients with either growth factors such as epoetin or blood transfusion leads to decreased symtoms and improved quality of life. The majority of cancer patients experience some level of anemia during their cancer treatment. Despite these facts, the majority of anemic cnacer patients never have their anemia treated. Moreover, those patients who do receive anemia treatment generally are not treated until their hgb decreases below 10g/dL.
This study suggests that cancer physicians need to be more vigilant and proactive in diagnosing and treating the anemia which occurs in the majority of their patients. Such a simple strategy should improves their patients' overall well being during aggressive cancer treatments.

Oncolink's ASH Coverage made possible by an unrestricted Educational Grant from Ortho Biotech.